Christmas

Check out all the previous Rest readings here.

Christmas Reading Plan | Week 2 Day 1

Prayer

As you come to spend time with Jesus, calm your mind and body until you feel fully present. Ask Him to teach you more about Himself today.

Bible Reading: Luke 1:34-38

Read these verses three times slowly.

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.”

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

Reflection & Questions

Last week, we left off with Mary receiving the news from the angel Gabriel that she was going to have a baby, and that this baby was going to be the King of Kings. Today we read Mary’s response and it is one of faith-filled pragmatism. Unlike Zechariah, she doesn’t doubt that this will happen, she simply wonders how. She’s a virgin after all.

Gabriel explains and again emphasizes how special this child will be. He will be “the holy one” and will be called “the Son of God.” It is a virgin birth because this child cannot be stained by the sin of Adam. He must be holy and perfect, without the sin nature.

Mary’s response at this moment is nothing short of amazing. “I am the Lord’s servant…May your word to me be fulfilled.” Her faith is simple and strong. The implications of this virgin birth will turn her life upside down. Whereas God relieved Elizabeth’s disgrace in giving her a son, Mary will face disgrace for having a son out of wedlock. But still, “I am the Lord’s servant” is her response.

1. What word or phrase sticks out to you from these verses? Why?
2. Are you the Lord’s servant in your life right now? How do you know?

Prayer

Pray in response to today’s reading.

Worship Song

You might use this song today to worship Jesus today:

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Questions?